Storytelling and Engagement Specialist

The Storytelling and Engagement Specialist supports the planning, development, and implementation of integrated communications efforts for clinical research and community outreach and engagement (COE) at the Masonic Cancer Center (MCC), University of Minnesota. This position plays a pivotal role in promoting the visibility, value, and accessibility of cancer clinical research across Minnesota, particularly through storytelling and strategic messaging that highlights the intersection of clinical trials and community engagement.

This role partners with the Minnesota Cancer Clinical Trials Network (MNCCTN) and MCC's Community Outreach and Engagement team to promote cancer research statewide and amplify community voices in the research process, especially within underserved and rural communities. The position supports web, social media, email, print, and digital content for internal and external audiences and ensures alignment with University brand standards.

Reporting to the MCC Marketing and Communications Manager, this role also works closely with leadership and staff from clinical research and community outreach teams, as well as external healthcare and community partners.

Key Responsibilities

Marketing, Communications, and Storytelling (35%)
Identify and develop compelling stories that illustrate the impact of clinical research and community outreach, particularly in underserved or rural communities.
Write, design, and distribute engaging content, including feature articles, newsletters, social media posts, study recruitment materials, and internal updates.
Contribute to the development and implementation of campaigns that connect Minnesotans with clinical trial opportunities and promote research informed by community needs.
Collaborate with MCC leaders, program teams, and external partners to ensure messaging is inclusive, culturally relevant, and easy to understand.
Assist in drafting, proofing, and disseminating content that elevates MCC's visibility and supports cancer research participation.

Website and Digital Content Management (35%)
Develop, write, edit, and publish content for MCC websites (Drupal/Google platforms), ensuring accuracy, digital accessibility, SEO best practices, and alignment with University/MCC standards.
Regularly audit and update web content in collaboration with internal partners to maintain relevance and usefulness for diverse audiences across Minnesota.
Analyze website traffic and user engagement data; recommend and implement improvements to site usability, discoverability, and accessibility.
Create and update digital assets (infographics, videos, visuals) to support outreach and engagement goals.

Social Media and Email Communications (20%)
Partner with MarComms manager to develop and maintain a consistent and strategic social media presence (e.g., Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn) to promote clinical research and outreach initiatives.
Manage content calendars, write and schedule posts, and engage with online community members.
Analyze social media performance and recommend strategies to enhance engagement.
Draft and send mass email communications (Mailchimp and Gmail), responding to inquiries and maintaining adherence to University and MCC standards.

Partnership and Engagement Support (5%)
Coordinate with healthcare system partners, community organizations, and advocates to share resources, align messaging, and co-promote cancer research opportunities.
Build and maintain relationships with partners to support MCC's and MNCCTN's community engagement and clinical research efforts.

Professional Development and Other Duties (5%)
Stay informed about evolving trends in health communication, community engagement, and digital marketing.
Participate in University-wide communications meetings and cross-campus collaborative efforts.
Support communications for events and special projects as needed.
Other duties as assigned.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Health, Marketing, or related field and at least 2 years of professional experience, or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least 6 years.
Demonstrated ability to write and design clear, engaging communications for diverse audiences using Associated Press (AP) writing style.
Experience with web content management systems (Drupal preferred), social media platforms, and mass email software (Mailchimp preferred).
Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and serving underrepresented communities.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience in public health, clinical research communication, or community engagement.
Experience with Canva or Adobe Creative Suite and graphic design.
Familiarity with cancer-related topics or health disparities.
Understanding of digital accessibility standards and inclusive design practices.
Experience collaborating with rural or underserved communities across Minnesota.
Existing relationships with media representatives, community partners, or healthcare systems. change-makers across Minnesota.

About the Masonic Cancer Center
The Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, is the Twin Cities' only Comprehensive Cancer Center, designated 'Outstanding' by the National Cancer Institute. As Minnesota's Cancer Center, we have served the entire state for more than 30 years. Our researchers, educators, and care providers work to discover the causes, prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer and cancer-related diseases as well as provide whole-of-life care and resources for cancer survivors. Learn more at cancer.umn.edu.

About MNCCTN and the MCC COE team
Housed within the University of Minnesota, the Minnesota Cancer Clinical Trials Network (MNCCTN) is a statewide initiative led by MCC that brings cancer clinical trials to communities across Minnesota through a partnership with multiple health systems. The Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) team at MCC works to ensure cancer research is informed by and benefits all Minnesotans.

Pay Range: $55,000 - $65,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 75%-100% Appointment (If job description above does not specify appointment or expected weekly hours, assume a 100% appointment.)

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).